Main data of the study programme
Study programme
State code
Type of study
Cycle of study
Form of studies (duration in years)
Scope of the study programme in credits
Degree and/or professional qualification awarded
Date of the programme registration
Programme language
Clinical Nursing
621A60004
University studies
Second (Master)
Full-time (2 years) and part-time (3 years)
120 ECTS
Master of Nursing
1999
Lithuanian
List of the members of the self-analysis group
No.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Name, surname,
scientific degree,
academic title
Aurelija Blaževičienė,
PhD, Associate Professor
Alina Vaškelytė, PhD
Daiva Kriukelytė, PhD,
Lina Spirgienė, PhD
Vita Lesauskaitė,
PhD, Professor
Monika Koncevičiūtė
Danguolė Ševcovienė
Position
Head of Nursing and
Care Department
Lecturer of Nursing and
Care Department
Lecturer of Nursing and
Care Department
Lecturer of Nursing and
Care Department
Head of the Department
of Geriatrics
Student, Clinical Nursing
Programme
Social partner
Phone (office, and
mobile)
+370 37 327147
+370 68245938
+370 37 327373
+370 612 31744
+370 37 327373
+370 615 64242
+370 37 327373
+370 65190435
+370 37306070
+370 62110854
+370 37 327373
+370 616 91014
+370 686 04178
+370 686 04178
ABBREVIATIONS
CQAHE
ECTS
FN
FPH
LSMU
MA
SSS
VA
MN
CN
FC
Centre for Quality Assessment in Higher Education
European Credit Transfer System
Faculty of Nursing
Faculty of Public Health
Lithuanian University of Health Sciences
Medical Academy
Students’ Scientific Society
Veterinary Academy
Master in Nursing
Clinical Nursing
FirstClass
E-mail
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................ 4
1. ANALYSIS OF THE PROGRAMME ............................................................................................... 5
2. THE STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME .................................................................................. 13
2.1. Curriculum of the programme ............................................................................................. 13
2.2. Descriptions of the study subjects and/or modules ............................................................. 16
2.3. Rationale of the curriculum ................................................................................................. 16
2.4. Requirements for a master’s thesis ..................................................................................... 16
3. THE TEACHING STAFF .............................................................................................................. 17
3.3. Personnel competence ........................................................................................................ 18
3.4. Participation in projects and research activities.................................................................. 18
3.5. Exchange activities of academic staff.................................................................................. 19
4. FACILITIES AND LEARNING RESOURCES .................................................................................. 20
4.1. Quality of classrooms and equipment used for studies ....................................................... 20
4.2. Learning resources ............................................................................................................... 21
5. STUDY PROCESS AND STUDENTS’ PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT .............................................. 22
5.1. Admission to studies ............................................................................................................ 22
5.2. Mean competition scores of admitted students .................................................................. 22
5.3. The ratio of students who were admitted to studies and who successfully completed the
study programme ....................................................................................................................... 22
6. PROGRAMME MANAGEMENT ................................................................................................... 26
6.2. Programme administration ................................................................................................. 26
6.3. Study quality assurance ....................................................................................................... 27
3
INTRODUCTION
1. Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (hereinafter - LSMU) is the largest educational institution for
preparation of health care specialists. It has long standing traditions and its history goes back to the Faculty of
Medicine at Vytautas Magnus University, which later became the Institute of Medicine. According to the
resolution by Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania on the 30th of June, 2010 Kaunas University of Medicine and
Lithuanian Veterinary Academy were merged.
2. The University has two collegial management bodies – the Council and the Senate and a sole management
body – the Rector, who is elected by the Council. Chancellors and Vice-Rectors provide help for Rector. Medical
Academy and Veterinary Academy are the main units of the University, which also includes Faculties, Research
Institutes, University Hospital, Veterinary Clinics, Centre of Practical Training and Experiments, Theoretical and
Clinical Departments, Faculty Institutes, Research Laboratories; other structural and functional units, which
provide the needs for studies, research, health care and social, and cultural life.
3. Teaching staff of LSMU consists of 161 professors, 229 associate professors, 298 lecturers, and 454 assistant
professors (by December 31, 2014). This entire staff provides qualitative studies of the first, second, integrated
and third circle in biomedical sciences. The University offers 29 study programmes. More than 6481 students
including 613 foreign students from more than 35 countries are studying in these programmes.
4. The Faculty of Nursing (hereinafter - FN) was established in 1990 and consists of six departments: Department
of Rehabilitation, Department of Geriatrics, Department of Nursing and Care, Sports Institute, Department of
Children Rehabilitation, and Department of Behavioural Medicine. The mission of the Faculty is to prepare
highly qualified specialists of nursing, midwifery, physical therapy, and occupational therapy by giving them
knowledge, professional skills, and forming the system of their attitudes and values, also by letting them
participate in scientific investigations of nursing, midwifery, rehabilitation, gerontology, physical therapy and
occupational therapy. They can also participate in the formation and implementation of health policy decisions.
5. Four bachelor programmes of the first cycle are conducted at the faculty: Nursing, Midwifery, Physical
therapy, and Occupational Therapy and four master programmes of the second cycle: Clinical Nursing, Health
promotion and Rehabilitation; Art Therapy (a joint programme with Kaunas Faculty of Vilnius Art Academy). The
graduates from these programmes have a right to work in all health care institutions of our country.
6. LSMU is the only university in Lithuania having the right to conduct third cycle studies (doctoral studies, PhD)
in nursing1.
7. Nursing training as a separate subject started to evolve from the main body of biomedical training at the
University a few decades ago.
8. Master studies in Clinical Nursing (hereinafter – CN) were introduced in 1999. This was the first nursing study
programme at the master level covering the issues of modern Nursing in Lithuania. The programme was
gradually developing according to the changing needs of the society and contemporary challenges in nursing,
and was supported by scientific evidence-based knowledge. The part-time CN programme was developed,
meeting the needs of working professionals in 2011.
9. This self-evaluation report contains data about the second-cycle programme Clinical Nursing.
10. The self-evaluation workgroup was formed by the Rector of the University2. All members were responsible
for a certain task in the report field. The summary of the self-evaluation was discussed at the meeting of Nursing
and Care Department staff on the 13th of April, 2014 (protocol No. SLF-04-4-14). The summary of self-evaluation
has been prepared according to the requirements of external audit for the study programmes 3,4.
11. The Master study programme Clinical Nursing so far has not been submitted for external expert evaluation.
1
Decision Ministry of Education and Science. 2011-06-08 Nr. V-1019 and 2011-06-21 Nr. B-1124
Rector’s Order, 27- 03 - 2014, No V-145 “On the formation of the self-assessment group.
3 The Description of the external audit and accreditation order, confirmed by the Minister of Education and Science of LR on 24 July, 2009, No ISAK- 1652.
(Amendment of the order No V-1487, 29-07-2011 by the Minister of Education of LR)
4 The Methods of study programme evaluation, accredited by the order of director of the Study Quality Centre on December 20, 2010.
2LSMU
4
1. ANALYSIS OF THE PROGRAMME
1.1. AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES OF THE PROGRAMME
12. The aim of the Clinical Nursing programme is to provide Master students theoretical and practical knowledge
for the evaluation of the quality of nursing, for the planning and organisation of the provision of nursing services,
for the planning of research, and for the creation of the conditions for the verification of the results of research
in practice, and applying evidence based nursing knowledge into practice.
13. The purpose of the programme is to educate master students in clinical nursing, whose professional and
research activity would be based on the most recent scientific evidence-based knowledge in nursing, the
development and practical application of methods, understanding of health policy, coordination of the provision
of nursing services, management and leadership, planning alternative solutions, evaluation of changes in the
health care environment, and preparation for academic and scientific work.
13. Objectives of the programme:



To train special and personal skills, which are necessary for continuing professional development in
nursing practice.
To develop competencies in planning, conducting, analysing, and communicating research in nursing.
To empower graduates to integrate nursing and management and education competencies in the
process of leading and managing nursing in health care institutions.
14. Sources where the aims and learning outcomes of the Clinical Nursing programme are presented. The aims
and learning outcomes of the Clinical Nursing programme are presented on the LSMU website5 and the Study
Information System (SIS) website page of the LSMU Study Centre6 as well as in the national AIKOS database7.
This study programme is advertised during higher education fairs and University Open Days. The University
regularly publishes booklets about the training programmes at LSMU, where information about the Clinical
Nursing programme is presented as well.
15. Links of the programme aim with University mission and development strategy. The aim and objectives of
the Clinical Nursing programme conform to the mission of the LSMU8, aiming to create, accumulate, systemise
and spread scientific knowledge, the newest achievements of studies and science, to teach and develop the
creative, honest, initiative-showing, educated, independent and enterprising personality, to foster democracy
and welfare, and to develop a healthy and educated society; to stimulate the economic and cultural prosperity
of the country, competitiveness of economic activity, social unity by such an activity, regardless gender, race,
political and religious beliefs, nationality and citizenship of employees, students and auditors.
16. The objectives of the University8 are as follows:

To conduct the studies, which provide the person with higher university education and qualification of
higher education corresponding to the modern level of knowledge and technologies based on scientific
research, and to develop the comprehensively educated, ethically responsible, creative and enterprising
personality.

To elaborate harmoniously the scientific cognition of various areas, to conduct scientific research and
experimental (social, cultural) expansion of high level, to prepare scientists, to conduct various practical
activities and to cooperate with national and international partners in the scientific and other areas.

To promote the development of the regions and entire country through cooperation with public and
economic partners through scientific, educative, artistic and other cultural activities;

To train the society open to education, science, art and culture, which would be able to explore science
effectively and compete in the market of technologies, products and services of high level.
5http://lsmuni.lt/lt/veikla/studijos/studiju-programos/ii-pakopos-studijos/
6https://sis.lsmuni.lt/visiems/Visiems/dalyku_paieska.aspx
7http://www.aikos.smm.lt/
8
Statute of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences. Approved by the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania on 30 June 2010, No. XI-973.
5
17. The aim and objectives of the Clinical Nursing programme are relevant to the objectives of the University
and correspond to the National Lithuanian Health Programme, aimed at improving the Lithuanian health care
system and educating highly qualified health managers. The objectives and the structure of the programme are
discussed with professional associations, such as Lithuanian Nurses Association, the Union of Lithuanian Nursing
Managers, Lithuanian Midwives Association, and hospital directors for nursing who are social partners of the FN
and are involved in the management and realisation of the studies at the Faculty.
18. Compliance of objectives with the study area and level. The objectives of the Clinical Nursing programme
meet the requirements for master’s studies in the area of Nursing. The structure and content of the study
programme grant necessary professional knowledge and abilities. The programme corresponds to the national
criteria of the Description of the Study Field of Nursing9 project, international criteria of the European
Qualifications framework (EQF)10, European Credit Transfer System for vocational education and training
(ECVET)11, The European Lifelong Guidance Policy Network (ELGPN)12, The European Quality Charter for
Mobility13.
19. Validity and exclusiveness of the programme. The Clinical Nursing programme is the programme in Lithuania,
which combines nursing, management, theoretical clinical, and education competencies, and awards a Master
degree in Nursing. It is popular among nurses’ professionals willing to start their careers in the area of health
management and working nurse managers/ administrators in different health care institutions aiming at
continuous professional development.
20. Competencies and learning outcomes of the programme. The objectives of the Clinical Nursing programme
are continuously achieved throughout the whole study period, which provides knowledge and develops
competencies in modern clinical nursing. This is reflected by students’ positive assessment after each study
subject and successful employment of the graduates. Learning outcomes determine the complexity level of
knowledge, assessment ability, practical and transferable competencies of the graduates of the Clinical Nursing
programme. The competences acquired and the learning outcomes of the Clinical Nursing programme are
presented in Table 1.1.
21. Learning outcomes at the programme level. A set of learning outcomes is achieved during 2 years in fulltime and 3 years in part-time programme. The graduates of the Clinical Nursing programme defend a thesis for
the master’s degree and earn a Master degree of Nursing. Successful graduation from the programme
guarantees the sufficient preparation of the graduates for doctoral studies in Nursing and other related areas.
22. Associations of the learning outcomes with the programme at the subject level. Learning outcomes at the
subject level match with the learning outcomes of other study subjects and reflect general learning outcomes
at the master’s level. Learning outcomes are achieved through the defined objectives of study subjects and their
contents. The study subjects included in the Clinical Nursing programme efficiently provide future specialists
with necessary knowledge and develop their practical skills, thus aggregating the necessary knowledge and
competencies. Associations between the learning outcomes and the study subjects are presented in Table 1.2.
and Table 1.3.
9Description
of the Study Field of Nursing. Vilnius, 2015
Qualifications Framework (EQF). Adopted April 2008 the European Parliament and Council
11European Credit Transfer System for vocational education and training. Adopted May 2009 the European Parliament and Council
12 EU Resolutions on Lifelong Guidance (2004; 2008)
13European Quality Charter for Mobility. Adopted of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 December 2006
10 European
6
Table 1.1. Competencies and learning outcomes of Clinical Nursing programme
1.
Competences
Knowledge and
its application
1.1
1.2
A graduate has
abilities:
1.3
1.4
2.
Abilities to
conduct a
research
2.1
A graduate has
abilities:
2.3
2.2
2.4
3.
Social abilities
3.1.
A graduate has
abilities:
3.2
3.3
4.
Personal abilities
A graduate has
abilities:
3.4
4.1
4.2
4.3.
4.4
5.
Special abilities
5.1
A graduate has
abilities:
5.2
5.3
5.4
Learning outcomes
to apply the latest nursing science knowledge by solving non-standard
situations in a professional activity, by implementing novelties;
to analyse critically and independently nursing science and practice
situations and to create new research in nursing field
to transfer independently nursing science knowledge to students and
colleagues, to guide nursing practice;
to distinguish the peculiarities of cross-cultural nursing, considering the
cultural development of different social groups and nationalities.
to initiate and coordinate the planning and conduction of nursing and
multidisciplinary research;
to analyse and manage the obtained results and to submit and interpret the
results correctly;
to apply in practice different nursing science methods: theoretical and
experimental;
to evaluate the reliability of research and to simulate the corresponding
nursing science solutions and to apply them in practice.
to work as a member of health care and inter-sectorial teams both in
Lithuania and internationally;
to develop models of inter-agency and inter-institutional cooperation by
improving nursing of the healthy individuals and those with disorders;
to provide knowledge of a professional activity and practical experience in a
qualified way;
to build support teams focused to continuous professional renewal.
to present independently the results of the conducted research and to offer
practical recommendations at the local, national and international levels;
to discuss relevant issues on nursing in a professional and interdisciplinary
environment at the local, national and international levels;
to develop independently one‘s professional competence and career;
to take innovative decisions with the evaluation of moral responsibility for
one‘s professional activity.
to develop a creative environment for the health care institution by enabling
the team members of health care to solve problems of patients, staff and
management;
to manage to evaluate changes in health care system and to prepare and
apply in clinical practice the nurse procedures standards, developed on the
basis scientifically substantiated knowledge;
to develop strategies of nursing issues solution and nursing science and
practice development;
to improve independently in a professional and interdisciplinary activity as
well as to motivate colleagues by emphasising the latest nursing research
achievements and practice priorities at the national and international levels.
66
9
239
120
119
6
160
80
80
7
186
93
93
3
80
53
27
30
798
420
378
26
692
367
325
Semester 2
Obligatory subjects
6 SLF/SLK/KS-M49
Qualitative research
methods
7 SLF/SLK/KS-M50
Clinical ethics.
Law
8 SLF/SLK/KS-M40
Quality management in
health care institution
1.4
1.3
1.2
1.1
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
5
133
66
67
5
2
133
53
66
36
67
17
+
+
+
+
+
3
80
53
+
27
8
5.4
67
5.3
133
5.2
5
5. Special abilities
5.1
385
4.4
413
4.3
798
4.2
30
Obligatory subjects
1 MF/FMB/KS-M13
Nursing Research
2 VSF/SMK/KS-M15
Public health, health care
and health information
technologies
3 SLF/SLK/KS-M48
Development in Nursing
Theory and Practice I
4 SLF/RE/KS-M06
Systems of Nursing and
Rehabilitation
5 VSF/FES/KS-M03
Human relations
4.1
385
3.4
413
3.3
798
3.2
30
3.1
Semester 1
2.4
763
2.3
833
2.2
1596
1. Knowledge and
its application
Study results of Master of Clinical Nursing Programme
Competences
2. Abilities to
3. Social abilities
4. Personal abilities
conduct a research
2.1
60
Self-study hours
Total workload of
student
1st Year
Study subjects (modules)
Contact hours
ECTS
Table 1.2. Associations between learning outcomes and study subjects in Clinical Nursing Programme (full-time)
9
SLF/SLK/KS-M51
Development in Nursing
Theory and Practice II
+
11
293
146
147
4
4
106
106
53
53
53
53
2nd Year
60
1596
956
640
Semester 3
30
798
425
373
Obligatory subjects
1 MF/FMB/KS-M14
Nursing Research
24
638
345
293
3
2
80
53
53
26
27
27
7
186
93
93
9
239
120
119
3
6
80
160
53
80
27
80
30
798
531
267
30
798
531
267
30
798
531
267
Elective subjects
Elective course
2
3
4
5
SLF/SLK/KS-M52
Methods of nursing quality
assessment
SLF/GER/KS-M02
Clinical standards of
nursing
SLF/SLK/KS-M45
Mentorship in Nursing
SLF/SLK/KS-M56
Management and
leadership in nursing
Semester 4
Obligatory subjects
5.
SLF/SLK/KS-M54
Final Master thesis
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
9
1st Year
42
1117
504
613
21
559
252
307
Obligatory subjects
1
MF/FMB/KS-MI01
21
559
252
307
Nursing Research
5
133
60
73
4
3
106
80
48
36
58
44
6
160
72
88
3
80
36
44
21
559
252
307
21
559
252
307
9
239
108
131
5
133
60
73
5
2
133
53
60
24
73
29
2nd Year
37
984
444
540
Semester 3
18
479
216
263
Semester 1
2
3
4
SLF/RE/KS-MI01
Nursing and rehabilitation
systems
SLF/SLK/KS-MI01
Development in Nursing theory
and Practice I
VSF/FES/KS-MI01
Human Relations
Semester 2
Obligatory subjects
5
VSF/SMK/KS-MI01
Public health, health care and
health information technologies
6
SLF/SLK/KS-MI02
Qualitative research methods.
7
SLF/SLK/KS-MI03
Clinical ethics.
Law
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
10
5.4
5.3
5.2
5. Special abilities
5.1
4.4
4.3
4.2
4.1
3.4
3.3
3.2
3.1
2.4
2.3
2.2
Study results of Master of Clinical Nursing Programme
Competences
2. Abilities to
3. Social abilities
4. Personal abilities
conduct a research
2.1
1.4
1.3
1.2
1. Knowledge and
its application
1.1
Self-study hours
Contact hours
ECTS
Study subjects (modules)
Total workload of
student
Table 1.3. Associations between learning outcomes and study subjects in Clinical Nursing Programme (part-time)
Obligatory subjects
1
MF/FMB/KS-MI03
14
373
168
205
Nursing Research
3
80
36
44
11
293
4
4
106
106
48
48
58
58
Semester 4
19
505
228
277
Obligatory subjects
1. SLF/SLK/KS-MI05
Health care quality management
2. SLF/SLK/KS-MI06
Methods of nursing quality
assessment
3. SLF/GER/KS-M02
Clinical standards of nursing
19
505
228
277
3
80
36
44
+
+
7
186
84
102
+
+
9
239
108
131
3 td Year
41
1091
492
599
Semester 5
20
532
240
292
20
532
240
292
3
80
36
44
2
53
24
29
6
160
72
88
9
239
108
131
21
559
252
307
21
559
252
307
21
559
252
307
SLF/SLK/KS-MI04
Development in Nursing theory
and Practice II
Elective subjects
+
+
2
Elective subjects
Obligatory subjects
1
SLF/SLK/KS-MI08
Mentorship in Nursing
2
MF/FMB/KS-MI09
Scientific research work
3
4
MF/FMB/KS-MI12
Leadership and Management
in Nursing
MF/FMB/KS-MI10
Final thesis
Semester 6
Obligatory subjects
MF/FMB/KS-MI10
Final Master thesis
132
161
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
11
23. Renewal of learning outcomes. The necessity regularly to renew learning outcomes is related to changing
regulatory environment and priorities in health care area both in Lithuania and the European Union (EU). A regular
evaluation of the learning outcomes of the Clinical Nursing programme ensures the competitiveness of the
programme and gives the graduates a competitive advantage in the labour market. The renewal of learning
outcomes guarantees an adequate reaction to society expectations and changes in the labour market. Programme
outcomes are evaluated considering the achievements in nursing science and practice, evaluating the opinions
and recommendations of potential employers and graduates. The process of the renewal of learning outcomes is
implemented through annual graduates’ interviewing and summarising their general opinion about the study
programme and readiness to work. The Study Programme Committee analyses information on the adequacy of
learning outcomes to current achievements in practice and science, evaluates the shortcomings of outcomes, and
recommends ways to eliminate them. Social partners are invited to present their opinion about the graduates’
knowledge and practical abilities. Social partners also participate in the Faculty Council and in the defence of
graduation theses. The same questions are addressed to the graduates, aiming at indication of the possible ways
for improvement of the programme and its outcomes.
24. The place of the Clinical Nursing programme among other similar study programmes at the University. The FN
also offers first-cycle programmes “Nursing” and “Midwifery” as well as second-cycle programmes in the
biomedicine area of science - “Health Promotion and Rehabilitation” and “Art Therapy”.
25. The place of the Clinical Nursing programme among programmes offered at other universities. The Clinical
Nursing programme is one of three Master programmes in Lithuania that grant Master’s degree in Nursing (the
other two programmes are located in Vilnius University and Klaipėda University).
Summary_________________________________________________________
26. The aim of the Programme meets the University mission, and the learning outcomes of the Programme
correspond to the international recommendations.
12
2. THE STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME
2.1. Curriculum of the programme
Table 2.1. The structure of the Clinical Nursing programme (full time and part time) in compatibility with the
requirements of the legislation
Clinical Nursing
The legislation requirements14
study
programme
Subjects of the study field
120 ECTS
≥60 credits
Research paper and graduation thesis
45 ECTS
≥30 credits
47%
≥30%
55%
≥30%
The percentage of independent work in subjects in fulltime studies
The percentage of independent work in subjects in parttime studies
The number of subjects studied and accounted for per
semester
The percentage of scientists teaching the subjects
1-5
≤5
78,6%
≥60%
The percentage of professors teaching advanced subjects
42,8%
≥20%
120 ECTS
90-120 credits
Total volume of the programme
27. The Clinical Nursing programme is offered in two forms: full-time and part-time. The duration of the full-time
programme is 2 academic years (4 semesters). The total number of ECTS credits is 120, and the total number of
hours is 3192 (of them, 1687 are contact hours accounting for 53% of all teaching workload). In the programme,
the first to third semesters are devoted to studies in global health management and clinical subject management,
with a gradual increase in research activities. The fourth semester is fully dedicated for writing the Master’ thesis
and its defence. The detailed description of the curriculum is presented in the Table 2.3.
28. The duration of the part-time Clinical Nursing programme is 3 academic years (6 semesters). The total number
of ECTS credits is 120, and the total number of hours is 3192(of them, 1440 are contact hours accounting for 45%
of all teaching workload). The detailed description of the curriculum is presented in the Table 2.4. 29. Subjects
from the first-cycle (Bachelor) of Nursing programme are not repeated in the second-cycle programme.
14
Order of Minister of Education and Science of LR “On the approval of the description of general requirements of undergraduate and integrated study for
granting degree” on April 9, 2010, No V-50,1 Vilnius
13
Table 2.3. Curriculum of the Master of Clinical Nursing Programme (full-time)
Lectures
(h)
Seminars
(h)
Self-studies
(h)
ECTS
20
47
67
5
Public health, health care and health
information technologies
41
79
120
9
Development in Nursing theory and
Practice I
20
60
80
6
Nursing and rehabilitation systems
22
58
80
7
Human Relations
Subtotal (1)
Semester 2
Qualitative research methods.
Scientific work
Clinical ethics.
Law
Health care quality management
Development in Nursing theory and
Practice II
Elective course
Subtotal (2)
Semester 3
21
124
32
276
26
373
3
30
18
48
67
5
Dr. A.Vaškelytė
18
8
16
48
28
41
67
17
23
5
2
3
Assoc. Prof. Dr. A. Blaževičienė
K. Astromskė
Assoc. Prof. Dr. A. Blaževičienė
16
130
148
11
Assoc. Prof. O. Riklikienė
24
100
29
324
54
376
4
30
14
10
39
16
27
27
3
2
Assoc. Prof. Dr. A. Blaževičienė
Dr. L.Pauliukėnas
48
45
93
7
Assoc. Prof. Dr. O. Riklikienė
32
30
59
23
96
28
9
3
26
54
80
6
Prof. Habil. Dr. V. Lesauskaitė
Assoc. Prof. Dr. O. Riklikienė
Assoc. Prof. Dr. A. Blaževičienė
160
236
351
30
508
531
270
1367
1370
30
30
120
Subject
Semester 1
Nursing Research
Nursing Research
Methods of nursing quality
assessment
Clinical standards of nursing
Mentorship in Nursing
Leadership and Management in
Nursing
Subtotal (3)
Semester 4
Final Master thesis
Subtotal (4)
Total
Responsible teacher
Dr. L. Pauliukėnas
Prof. Habil. Dr. R. Kalėdienė
Assoc. Prof. V. Kalibatas
Lecturer V. Skvernys
Dr. D. Kriukelytė
Prof. Habil. Dr. V. Lesauskaitė
V. Keizeris
Assoc. Prof. Dr. S. Laskienė
Assoc. Prof. Dr. A. Blaževičienė
14
Table 2.4. Curriculum of the of Clinical Nursing programme (part-time)
Lectures
(h)
Seminars
(h)
Self-study
(h)
Semester 1
Nursing Research
20
40
74
Nursing and rehabilitation systems
22
46
92
20
52
21
83
Subject
Progress in Nursing Theory and
Practice I
Human Relations
Subtotal (1)
Semester 2
Public health, health care and health
information technologies
Qualitative research methods.
Scientific work
Clinical ethics.
Law
Subtotal (2)
Semester 3
Nursing Research
Progress in Nursing Theory and
Practice II
Elective course
Subtotal (3)
Semester 4
Health care quality management
Methods of nursing quality
assessment
Clinical standards of nursing
Subtotal (4)
Semester 5
Mentorship in Nursing
Scientific research work
Leadership and Management in
Nursing
Final Master thesis
Subtotal (5)
Semester 6
Final Master thesis
Subtotal (6)
Total
ECTS
Responsible teacher
5
4
3
Dr. L. Pauliukėnas
Prof. Habil. Dr. V. Lesauskaitė
V. Keizeris
88
6
Dr. D. Kriukelytė
32
170
26
280
3
21
Assoc. Prof. Dr. S. Laskienė
40
68
132
9
Prof. Habil. Dr. R. Kalėdienė
Assoc. Prof. V. Kalibatas
Lecturer V. Skvernys
18
48
67
5
Assoc. Prof. Dr. O. Riklikienė
18
6
82
42
18
176
74
29
302
5
2
21
Assoc. Prof. Dr. A. Blaževičienė
K. Astromskė
10
26
44
3
Dr. L. Pauliukėnas
18
114
161
11
Dr. A. Vaškelytė
23
51
25
165
59
264
4
18
12
24
44
3
Assoc. Prof. Dr. A. Blaževičienė
43
51
103
7
Assoc. Prof. Dr. O. Riklikienė
32
87
76
151
132
279
9
19
Prof. Habil. Dr. V. Lesauskaitė
28
10
8
14
44
29
3
2
26
46
88
6
Assoc. Prof. Dr. O. Riklikienė
Assoc. Prof. Dr. A. Blaževičienė
Assoc. Prof. Dr. A. Blaževičienė
64
108
176
132
293
9
20
Assoc. Prof. Dr. A. Blaževičienė
-
252
252
1090
308
308
1726
21
21
120
Assoc. Prof. Dr. A. Blaževičienė
367
15
2.2. Descriptions of the study subjects and/or modules
30. During the first year of the studies, the students learn various models of nursing theories and their application
in concrete cases, the principles of public health and health care, the quality of health care, and clinical ethics.
Research work already begins in the first semester and continues throughout all semesters. During the second year
of their studies, the students learn leadership, mentorship, and nursing quality techniques, and also continue their
research work. The descriptions of the study subjects are presented in the Annex 1.
2.3. Rationale of the curriculum
31. Master studies programme in Clinical Nursing was the first programme of such type not only in Lithuania, but
also in the Baltic States. In 2011, based on the experience of the full-time Clinical Nursing programme, a 3-year
part-time Clinical Nursing programme was developed. The part-time Clinical Nursing programme was proposed
when taking into consideration the students’ needs. Since all students in the Master’s programme are employed
and live in different parts of Lithuania, combining work and studies in full-time studies was quite complicated for
them combining full-time job and full-time studies. The need for this programme is well proven by the large
numbers of entrants to this programme (see Table 6.2.). The main structure of the Clinical Nursing programme has
been stable since 1999. However, some new study subjects (Management and Leadership in Nursing, Patient Safety
and Risk Management; Mentorship in Nursing) have been introduced and regularly modifications within study
subjects have been implemented. These subjects were introduced in response to the requests of students and
employers.
32. The content of the study programme is based on national documents15,16 and international requirements for
running such programmes. The Clinical Nursing programme fully meets requirements, which are set in the
International Council of Nurses17; in the Honour Society of Nursing, Sigma Theta Tau International18.
33. The content of the Clinical Nursing programme in general and topics of particular study subjects are directly
oriented towards the learning outcomes of the programme. Study subjects and covered topics are comprehensive
and complementary to each other, hereby warranting the integrate achievement of learning outcomes. The types
and methods employed to provide knowledge and competences depend on the specificity of study subjects. The
various forms of lectures, seminars and practical works are supported and accepted if they efficiently assist the
achievement of the learning outcomes of the Clinical Nursing programme.
2.4. Requirements for a master’s thesis
34. The Faculty of Nursing has confirmed the “Regulation for writing and defending theses for Master study
programmes”19, which is available on the web page as well. This document clearly and in details presents
preparation and defence procedures of master thesis, which are obligatory to follow by students. Every master
student graduates the programme with the preparation and public defence of a master’s thesis. The preparation
process is supervised by an academic supervisor who is assigned in the first semester. Only teachers with a scientific
degree (PhD) may be supervisors of students’ master theses. Every student has to prepare a research plan and to
present it to the Master’s Thesis Qualification Committee. Students may choose the topics for their theses
depending on the specificity of their work, or they may choose a research topic proposed by the departments.
Information on the proposed research topics and potential supervisors is available in the University intranet
FirstClass. Members of the Qualification Committee may not be members of the Defence Committee.
15Law
on Higher Education of Lithuanian Republic; Regulations of Integrated Studies; Lithuanian National Health Concept; Lithuanian Health Conception;
Lithuanian
Health
Programme;
Together
for
Health:
A
Strategic
Approach
for
the
EU
2008–2013
(URL:
http://ec.europa.eu/health/ph_overview/Documents/strategy_wp_en.pdf.); WHO (1999) Health 21: the health for all policy framework for the WHO
European Region. WHO Regional Office for Europe, Copenhagen.
16Nursing Midwifery Services Strategic Directions 2011 -2015.WHO
17http://www.icn.ch/
18 http://www.nursingsociety.org/
19Regulation for Writing and Defending Theses for Master Study Programmes. Approved at the meeting of the Nursing Faculty Council on 12 April 2012,
protocol No. SF-4-14 http://lsmuni.lt/media/dynamic/files/1283/magistro_baig_reglamentas_spausdinti_2.pdf
16
35. The Qualification Committee evaluates and approves research plans and also follows the progress of the
preparation of thesis. The research must be carried out based on the approved plan. At the end of each semester,
students prepare reports on the progress of their research projects. A special book in Lithuanian 20, which is
accessible to students in the Library, also is recommended for preparation of their thesis.
36. Master students’ graduation theses are uploaded to a special folder of the FirstClass system to be evaluated by
the Defence Committee; only members of the Defence Committee have access to the theses before the defence.
37. The Defence Committee is approved by the order of the Rector and includes researchers from other
departments as well as social partners. Prior to the defence, all the theses are checked with the anti-plagiarism
system, and after the defence, are stored in the eLAB with public access.
38. The reviewer’s evaluation makes 30% of the mark for the graduation thesis, and the evaluation given by the
members of the Defence Committee – 70%. If the student disagrees with the evaluation, he or she may apply to
the Appeals Commission, created by the order of the Rector.
Summary_____________________________________________________________
39. The analysis showed that the Clinical Nursing programme is organised in two different forms (full-time and parttime) based on the same study subjects and involving nearly the same team of teachers. This ensures flexibility of
the studies and is adjusted to the needs of working professionals. Academic staff from different departments of
the university is engaged in the teaching process, what guarantees the high-level qualifications of teachers involved
in delivering particular study subjects in rehabilitation and geriatrics.
3. THE TEACHING STAFF
3.1. Academic staff
40. Academic staff from 5 departments of the Nursing and Public Health Faculties takes part in the teaching process
of Clinical Nursing programme (full-time and part-time). Staff is employed and certification is performed in
accordance with the requirements outlined in the following documents: the Labour Code of the Republic of
Lithuania21, Procedure for the Organisation and Certification of Admission to LSMU Teacher’s and Scientific
Worker’s Positions22, and Principles of LSMU Employees’ Recruitment and Assessment23. The qualifications and
suitability of lecturers are assessed every 5 years according to their achievements in academic, scientific and
practical areas. If an applicant to be assessed fails to meet the set minimum requirements, his/her academic
activities are suspended. An existing system of the assessment ensures the high qualifications of academic staff
and its compliance to the formal requirements.
3.2. Validity of the staff structure
41. Appropriate teachers and students ratio is guaranteed at the lectures, seminars, practical work, and based on
as study process organised in accordance with the Lithuanian Republic Labour Code24; approved and regularly
updated by LSMU Senate‘ „regulation of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences teachers staff workload and
payment"25, where is regulated teacher‘s workload. There is an optimal ratio between students writing final thesis
and their supervisors: is aimed, that one leader shouldn‘t have more than 3-4 students supervising for final thesis.
20
Pauliukėnas L, Šeškevičius A. Reabilitacijos ir slaugos studijų krypčių mokslinių darbų rengimas (Preparation of Research Papers in Study Fields of
Rehabilitation and Nursing). Kaunas: Vitae Literae publishing house. 2008
21Labour Code of the Republic of Lithuania (Official Gazette Valstybės žinios, 2002, No. 64-2569; Official Gazette Valstybės žinios, 2002, No. 71).
22 Procedure for the Organisation and Certification of Admission to LSMU Teacher’s and Scientific Worker’s Positions. Approved by the LSMU Senate on 20
Jun 2014, resolution No. 47-03
23 Principles of LSMU Employees’ Recruitment and Assessment. Approved by the LSMU Senate on 30 Jun 2014, resolution No. 47-03.
24 LR Labour code. No. IX-926; 4 Jun 2002
25 Senate resolution No. 48-01 30 Jun 2014 Regulation of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences teachers staff workload and payment
17
42. Teacher qualifications are high and allow for achieving programme goals and objectives. Teacher workload is
distributed in an optimal teaching, scientific, and other activities. There is a sufficient number of teachers in the
LSMU Clinical Nursing programme, and the Faculty actively participates in research work (78.6% of all teachers in
the programme hold a doctor’s degree).
43. The LSMU Clinical Nursing programme is provided with a sufficient number of technical staff - every LSMU unit
(department/ clinic/ institute) has studies administrator responsible for the help in organising the study process;
there is an technician responsible for the material department‘s values, and it‘s care. Also LSMU is a Information
technology centre that takes care for computer and hardware maintenance. All teachers and students in case of
necessity, have the opportunity to get a support of the technical staff.
44. Teacher turnover is very low; there are main causes - a natural change of the staff (including retirement,
maternity leave) and the end of the contract. This staff change does not affect the programme‘s quality.
45. The list, qualifications and professional activities of all the members of academic staff are presented in the
Annex 2. CVs of all the members of academic staff are presented in the Annex 3.
3.3. Personnel competence
Staff experience and operational compliance to the study program
46. The experience of the staff is sufficient. Teachers are not only experienced educators but also competent
researchers and experts in nursing practice. Some of them are invited to work groups at the Ministry of Health, the
National Health Board, the WHO, the EU Commission and other national and international organisations. Prof. J.
Macijauskienė is a State senior specialist for nursing appointed by the Health Care Ministry and a Board member
of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Lithuania. Most of the teachers are the members of relevant
professional organisations. These practical activities give opportunities to obtain and update practical,
methodological and theoretical experience and enable to achieve study programme aims by the unity of studies,
research and practice. Research areas of the academic staff are related to the study programme. More detailed
information about research areas, competencies, participation in the research projects and the most important
publications are presented in the CVs of staff (Annex 3).
47. Full-time and part time Master of Clinical Nursing programme. The percentages of the academic personnel with
more than 10 years of scientific, pedagogical, and practice experience are 42.9%, 85.7% and 71.4%, respectively
(Annex 2). Teachers’ research and practical experience contribute to the teaching quality in terms of case studies
and evidence-based data presented.
3.4. Participation in projects and research activities
48. The majority of academic staff of the Clinical Nursing programme is involved in research activities related to the
topics of the taught subjects by academic staff. Five different research projects, such as „Integration of Selfmanagement and Palliation: Implications for Health policy and nursing education“(IMPACT, financed by EU-US
Atlantis program); “Supporting innovative learning approaches through Mobile Integration in the workplace
Oncology Nursing (SMILEON) (518383-LLP-1-ES-LEONARDO-LMP); „EmpNURS - Empowering of professionalization
of nurses through mentorship“ (510111-LLP-1-2010-1-FI-ERASMUS-ECUE);“Create clinical training centres for
Public health, Nursing and Physical therapies studies programme students” (ELI) (Nr.Vp1-2.2-ŠMM-07-k-01);
“Increasing international studies and renew Nursing, Public Health and Food safety studies programme” (SVEVIT)“
Nr. VP1-2.2-ŠMM-07-K-02-050 and other, were carried out during 2010-2014.
49. Scientific publications of different types were published during 2010-2014: 31 ISI indexed articles, 8 textbooks,
26 educational books, 3 monographs, and other methodological papers (totally 392 publications for all programme
teachers).
50. Teachers of the Department of Nursing and Care involved in this programme have published textbooks “Clinical
Nursing”, “Dissemination of Research Data in Nursing”, and “Practical teaching of Nursing”, which are necessary
18
for the teaching of the subjects of the programme. All publications of academic staff are presented in the Table 1,
Annex 3.
51. The members of academic staff are also members of editorial or reviewer boards for a number of peer-reviewed
journals, such as “Medicina” (IF 0,508), “Nursing education, research and practice – NERP”, published by the
Department of Nursing and Care in cooperation with the Faculty of Nursing of LSMU; “Central European Journal of
Nursing and Midwifery”; “Clinical Nursing Studies”; “Nursing Education in Practice”, and “Social health”. Moreover,
the academic staff is actively involved in carrying out scientific research and presents its results in national and
international scientific conferences, seminars and public events.
3.5. Exchange activities of academic staff
52. Teachers working in the programme quite actively participate in teacher mobility activities. According to the
signed teacher exchange agreements (ERASMUS LLP, of which the Faculty of Nursing has 19) and other bilateral
agreements (multi-professional networks financed by NordPlus such as Trollnet, Nordman, Rosa Linea, and
Nordinet), each year teachers of the Clinical Nursing programme travel to other European universities to deliver
lectures and enhance their knowledge. Teachers from foreign universities also come to the Faculty of Nursing to
deliver lectures and conduct scientific-practical seminars. The dynamics of teacher mobility over the evaluated
period is presented in Table 3.1.
Table 3.1. The Number of Teachers Outgoing for Academic Work
Number
Percentage of all
permanent teachers in the
programme
2010-2011
13
32.5
2011-2012
15
37.5
2012-2013
10
21.5
2013-2014
12
28.8
Academic year
Countries
Finland, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom, Germany,
Holland, Italy, Belgium, Sweden, Scotland
Finland, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom, Germany,
Holland, Italy, Belgium, Sweden, the USA, Canada, Spain,
Denmark, Romania, Iceland
Sweden, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom, Germany,
the USA, Denmark, Holland, Romania, Kazakhstan
Sweden, Turkey, Kazakhstan
53. Teachers of the programme actively participate in the activities financed by the Research Council of Lithuania
(RCL). Within the framework of the RCL project, the Faculty received visiting teachers Dr. C. Bradbury and Dr. O.
Herber from Dundee University, who conducted scientific seminars on research and qualitative studies. There is
also active cooperation with universities in the USA. Professor Anne R. Bavier from Connecticut University (USA)
visited the Department from 14th May to 14th June in 2014. Her visit was financed by the Fulbright Scholar
Programme (USA). Professor Bavier worked assisting our teachers to increase dialogue in the classroom, by using
various teaching techniques, explaining theoretical basis, sharing experience with the teachers in transition
theoretical knowledge to clinical practice and, finally, working with small groups of hospital employees who must
provide clinical instructions (mentorship) for students.
54. The students of the Clinical Nursing programme are encouraged to participate in the meetings and lectures
delivered by guest lecturers. The University has developed close collaboration with other universities; incoming
lectures were from Scotland, Norway, Portugal, England, Netherland, Finland, Czech Republic, America, Sweden,
Denmark, and Turkey (see Table 3.2.).
Table 3.2. The Number of Teachers Incoming for Academic Work
19
Academic
Year
2010 - 2011
Number
of incoming teachers
8
2011 - 2012
2012 - 2013
2013 - 2014
4
4
8
Country
Finland, Holland, Portugal, the United Kingdom, Scotland,
Portugal, the USA
Sweden, Norway, Turkey
Holland, Finland
Turkey, the USA, Sweden
Summary_____________________________________________________________
55. The University has the sufficient resources of academic staff to implement the Clinical Nursing programme. An
adequate number of academic staff holds a PhD. The majority of academic staff has practical, academic and/or
research experience of at least 3 years in the field of the taught subject. Different experience related to the field of
the programme is gained by the members of academic staff through their activities outside the university (being
national and/or international experts, working in public and private health care and public health institutions). The
University provides additional resources to staff mobility and exchange. A low rate of staff turnover assures the
stability and continuity of the programme.
4. FACILITIES AND LEARNING RESOURCES
4.1. Quality of classrooms and equipment used for studies
56. Studies of the second-cycle programme Clinical Nursing are carried out according to the LSMU general order of
the organisation of studies, coordinating the time and the place of the studies with other programmes of the
University (this is the responsibility of the LSMU Study Centre).
57. A part of the LSMU Department of Nursing and Care is located in the premises of the Public Establishment
Kaunas Clinical Hospital (address: Laisvės ave. 17), and has two auditoria with 30 places each, 2 auditoria with 20
places each, 1 auditorium with 10 places, and one room – for student consultation; another part of the Department
is located at the Public Establishment Hospital of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Kauno klinikos
(address: Eivenių str. 2), the premises of the Clinic of Cardiology, where it has an auditorium with 20 places.
58. All auditoria and the consultation room are equipped with projectors, computers, and internet connection. The
Department of Nursing and Care has acquired 15 tablet computers, 4 mini computers, and 4 laptop computers,
which are used during seminars. During the defence of Master’s theses, each member of the Defence Committee
may view the theses on the computer.
59. The LSMU Department of E-Studies (address: Sukilėlių ave. 17) organises distance lectures and e-classes. They
may also be broadcasted over the internet or recorded and saved in the server. In addition to that, direct video
conferences or tele-consultations may be organised as well.
60. The following software is installed in the computers in the LSMU auditoria, the LSMU Library, and the Health
Science Information Centre: MS Word, MS Excel, Statistica, Epi Info 2000, and SPSS; Anti-Virus software is used for
virus protection, and thus all the computers have a safe access to the internet.
61. The LSMU Department of Nursing and Care has bases for practical training in University and other hospitals,
but clinical practice is not included in the second-cycle study programme Clinical Nursing.
62. The studies also take place at the Faculty of Public Health (Vydūnas campus, Šiaurės pr. 57, 11 classrooms): 1
classroom for 100 students, 8 classrooms for 20-50 students and 2 classrooms for 50-60 students. Classrooms are
equipped with white boards, computers and multimedia projectors and furniture that can be rearranged for work
in groups.
63. The strategic aim of the LSMU development includes the renovation of the infrastructure of studies, and an
overhaul of the Teaching Laboratory Building (address: Eivenių str. 4) is scheduled to be completed in the autumn
20
of 201526. The premises of the Department of Nursing and Care are planned to be situated in the renewed Teaching
Laboratory Building. The strategic aim of further development of the LSMU also includes a new study and research
base of the Faculty of Nursing – i.e. a new building with the total area of ca. 5.500 m2; the technical project has
already been completed, and construction work is scheduled to begin this year.
4.2. Learning resources
64. In 2007, the LSMU Library and the Health Science Information Centre (address: Eivenių str. 6) moved into a new
building that meets international standards. On Mondays to Fridays, the LSMU Library is open from 07.30 to 22.30,
and on Saturdays and Sundays – from 10.00 to 20.00. The visitors of the Library may use 4 reading rooms with a
total of 332 work places, of which 56 are computerised, 3 reading rooms for group learning, a computer training
class with 12 places, and seminar and conference halls.
65. The LSMU Library has available main publications required for the programme. Each year, analyses of teachers’
and students’ needs for books are conducted, and possibilities for acquiring the necessary books are sought based
on those needs.
66. The LSMU Library subscribes to Lithuanian biomedical journals and foreign periodicals. All information is
provided in the Library’s website http://library.lsmu.lt. Electronic databases are accessible to the visitors: currently,
there are 19 open access databases and 16 subscription-only databases; newly tested databases may also be used
regularly. The LSMU Library subscribes to the database “Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition”, which contains
550 journals on nursing (Nursing Research; Nursing Ethics; Nursing Education; Nursing Management and other).
Employees of the LSMU Library conduct the search of information in databases for full-text articles, and order
copies of articles in journals and books from Lithuanian and foreign libraries. The LSMU Interlibrary Loan orders
copies of articles as well as various publications from Lithuanian and foreign libraries.
67. Master students may use the specialised nursing science reading room located in the premises of the University
Hospital (a subdivision of the LSMU Library; address: Eivenių str. 2). This reading room is open from 8.00 to 17.00
on Mondays to Thursdays, and from 8.00 to 15.45 – on Fridays. The specialised nursing science reading room has
14 computerised working places, and two equipped rooms can be used for writing research papers. The employees
provide consultations concerning search in databases. The reading room has 741 publications (books, journals,
etc.). In 2014, the reading room had 16 853 visitors, and lent 35 945 publications.
68. The Department of Nursing and Care issues a scientific peer-reviewed journal NERP (Nursing Education,
Research, & Practice) in English. The journal NERP is issued twice yearly. Its purpose is to accumulate the newest
data and disseminate the results of scientific research that are important for nursing practice. The first issue of the
journal was released in 2011. Its website is http://nerp.lsmuni.lt/.
69. In 2012, the intranet system FirstClass was introduced in all study cycles and for communication between
University subdivisions. This software facilitates cooperation between research personnel, teachers, and students.
Students have continuous access to the material of the lectures – they can see all the updates, may have an online
discussion with their teachers, and may ask questions on the topic of interest or (to clarify something) to any
subdivision of the University. Each user has his or her interactive calendars, which allows for efficient time planning.
The address of the University’s FirstClass system is http://fc.lsmuni.lt/
Summary______________________________________________________________________
70. The number of auditoria, laboratories and other facilities at LSMU is sufficient to ensure a successful teaching
and learning process. The LSMU library is fully supplied with books, methodical and scientific publications necessary
for studies. Scientific literature and databases are continuously updated according to the needs of students and
teachers. Teaching and demonstration equipment required for lectures and seminars is provided. There are
possibilities to renew the equipment and to rearrange the furniture for students to work in groups.
26Resolution
of the Council of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences “On the Approval of the Altered Guidelines of the Strategic Development of the
LSMU, their Implementation Plan, and Descriptions of Evaluation Criteria for Projects” No. 6-10. Kaunas, 20 December, 2013.
21
5. STUDY PROCESS AND STUDENTS’ PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT
5.1. Admission to studies
71. To be admitted to the study programme Clinical Nursing, candidates should have bachelor’s degree, the
professional qualification of a general practice nurse or a midwife, and a valid practice licence. Individuals with a
vocational bachelor’s degree may also be admitted after completing bridging courses.
5.2. Mean competition scores of admitted students
72. The formula of the competition score consists of the sum of the mean evaluation score of subjects listed in the
transcript of records, the evaluation of research activity (up to 2 points), and the mean evaluation score of the
motivational interview (up to 3 points).
73. During the academic year of 2013-2014, 7 applications for full-time studies and 17 applications for part-time
studies in the second-cycle study programme Clinical Nursing were received. On the competition basis, 24 students
were admitted to studies in this Master degree programme. The mean competition score of students admitted to
full-time studies was 9.0 points, the highest score being 9.41 points, and the lowest score – 8.26 points. The mean
competition score of students admitted to part-time studies was 8.0 points, the highest competition score being
9.64 points, and the lowest score – 7.5 points (Table 5.1.). All study places are state-financed.
Table 5.1. Mean competition score of students entering Master studies in Clinical Nursing
Year
2009-2010
2010-2011
2011-2012
2012-2013
2013-2014
Highest score
Full-time Part-time*
9.4
9.4
9.6
9.0
9.5
9.6
9.64
9.41
Lowest score
Full-time
Part-time*
8.3
8.0
8.0
8.0
7.5
8.0
7.5
8.26
Mean score
Full-time
8.9
8.62
8.59
8.7
9
Part-time*
8.89
8.4
8
* Part – time studies were introduced in 2011
5.3. The ratio of students who were admitted to studies and who successfully completed the study programme
74. Table 5.2 summarises the number of submitted applications, admitted students and graduates in the full-time
and part-time study programmes during 2009-2014. There is a trend towards a decrease in the number of students
enrolled into the part-time programme in recent years that is caused by the increasing number of state-funded
places in the full-time programme
Table 5.2. Total number of submitted applications, admitted students and graduates in the full-time and parttime study programmes during 2009-2014
No. of submitted applications
Year
2009-2010
2010- 2011
2011- 2012
2012- 2013
2013- 2014
No. of admitted students
No. of graduates
Full-time
Part-time*
Full-time
Part-time*
Full-time
Part-time*
12
12
20
21
7
31
31
17
12
12
11
17
7
11
25
17
12
9
9
14
14
10
* Part – time studies were introduced in 2011
22
5.4. Volume and forms of student participation in scientific, artistic, and applied scientific activities
75. Scientific activity. According to the current Regulation for Writing and Defending Theses for Master Study
Programmes of the LSMU Medical Academy Faculty of Nursing27, all Master students have to present the results of
their research in scientific conferences, and to submit the documented proof to the Qualification Committee. The
dissemination of the results of students’ research is provided in Table 5.3.
Table 5.3. Scientific conferences where material of graduation theses and publications are presented
No.
Research activity
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
-
1
1
1
-
1
International conferences
2
National conferences
27
16
5
3
-
3
Publications
4
13
2
2
-
76. Students may participate in the activity of the Students’ Scientific Society (SSS). SSS is an organisation of young
researchers and students striving for research. In addition to that, the University has actively operating research
circles that unite like-minded people who are interested in the same field of health care.
77. Artistic activity. Students are invited to join the activity of various organisations of the LSMU, including the
dance and music ensemble “Ave vita”, the choir “Neris”, or the association “Gaja” – a branch of the Lithuanian
Catholic Federation “Ateitis” (“The Future”) where both University students and graduates participate.
78. Other activity. After the lectures, students may join a dialog with representatives of the Catholic Church by
participating in the activity of the LSMU group “Sielovada” (“Pastoral Care”). They may also spend active leisure
time by participating in health promotion sessions or sport aerobics training, or by playing basketball, tennis, table
tennis, or badminton. Students have access to health improvement, pool swimming, the sport of athletics, or
football training.
79. The University provides an opportunity for Clinical Nursing students to participate in students’ exchange
programmes. Clinical Nursing students had a possibility to participate in the Nordinet network activities (founded
by Nord Plus programme). This network provided an opportunity for students to study and practise (maximum 4
weeks). Two students were in Sweden and Island.
80. These mobility programmes allow improving English language, clinical and communication skills as wells as
learning about a new culture and becoming more open-minded.
81. Even though, students’ participation in the mobility programmes is rather low due to difficulties combining
work and travelling: nearly all Clinical Nursing students are employed (very often – head nurses of the
departments), and use “study leave time” for studies, thus exchange programmes become challenging because of
lack of free from work time. However, more intensive mobility of teachers contributes to adding international
perspectives to the teaching process.
27
Regulation for Writing and Defending Theses for Master Study Programmes of the LSMU Faculty of Nursing. Approved at the meeting of the Faculty Council
on 12 April 2012, protocol No. SF-4-14
23
5.5. Academic and social support
5.5.1. Academic support
79. At the beginning of each new subject, Master students of Clinical Nursing programme always have introductory
lectures, during which they are acquainted with the aims and objectives of the subject, learning materials, subject
agenda, assignments, assessment, and the calculation of a final mark.
80. The University provides facilities and support services to assist students in their studies. Students have access to
the selected computer labs during working hours. The Library has more than 200 000 different volumes (books,
journals, etc.). In addition to this, the Library offers free access to the main journals in the field of nursing (they can
be accessed from computers connected to the University network). The Information Centre provides the following
services: information services, copying-printing, binding documents, interlibrary loan services, scanning, layout and
printing of posters. In addition, students can make reservations of classrooms for studying in groups. All the campuses
have coffee shops and canteens.
81. If students have some questions, they are welcome to ask for help from their teachers or administrative staff at
any time. Master’s students who are also the members of various students’ organisations receive support from their
senior colleagues.
5.5.2. Social support
82. Student’s loans. Students can be granted study loans allocated by the State Studies Foundation:
 For living expenses (the amount of loans for living expenses assigned additionally in the spring semester shall
not exceed 25 basic social benefits (942 EU).
 State-supported loans for studies in accordance with international (inter-institutional) agreements. This
amount during the whole academic year shall not exceed 60 basic social benefits (2261 EU).
83. Students wishing to receive a State loan or a State-supported loan have to fill in an application form on the
Foundation website and submit it to the Foundation before the indicated deadline.
84. Support for disabled students. The LSMU supports financially disabled students with the following means:
 A monthly targeted benefit for special needs in the amount of 50% of the state social insurance basic pension
(currently 180 Lt/52 EUR);
 A targeted benefit to partially pay tuition fees for partially state-funded and non-funded students in the
amount of 3.2 basic social benefits per semester (currently 416 Lt).
85. Targeted benefits for students with disabilities are allocated by the LSMU, and their payment is administered by
the State Studies Foundation. The amount of a targeted benefit is 4 basic social benefits per month. Targeted benefits
are allocated for one study semester including the exam and vacation periods of that semester, but not longer than
up to the end of studies. Disabled students who wish to receive financial support have to submit the required
documents to the LSMU Study Department.
86. Social scholarships. Social scholarships can be awarded to:
 Students whose families (or students themselves) have a right to receive or receives social benefits;
 Students with a 45% (or lower) level of working capacity or severe or moderate disability;
 Students who were under guardianship (care) until adulthood or who have deceased parents (or a single
parent).
87. Students meeting the criteria to be awarded memorial scholarship can apply for memorial scholarship of Birutė
Petrikas in nursing which was established by Lithuanian National Foundation, Inc (USA) .
24
5.6. Assessment of achievements
88. The assessment of students’ achievements is directly linked to the learning outcomes. The principles of
assessment are set in the LSMU Regulations for Studies28, the LSMU Procedure for the Assessment of Learning
Outcomes29and are outlined in the descriptions of every study subject. The grading scale employed is as follows: 10
(excellent), 9 (very good), 8 (good), 7 (enough), 6 (satisfactory), 5 (week), 4 (bad, not passed) and 3 (not passed). The
lowest positive grade is 5 (weak). The requirements of subjects differ slightly; nevertheless, in the majority of
subjects, participation in lectures and seminars, performance of individual work, written tests, preparation of group
reports and presentation at teaching conferences as well as a written exam are required. For ensuring the
objectiveness of the assessment of student’s work, all tests and exams are organised in written form using special
coding to ensure anonymity. During the presentations of individual reports, special committees of experts are
created, and students themselves are involved in the assessment of the projects done by their colleagues. Students
must conduct their studies at the University honestly, ethically and in accordance with the accepted standards of
academic conduct. Any form of academic conduct that contradicts these standards is academic misconduct and is
unacceptable. Some students engage deliberately in academic misconduct with intent to deceive. This conscious,
pre-meditated form of cheating is one of the worst forms of fraudulent academic behaviour, for which the University
has zero tolerance and for which penalties, including expelling from the University, can be applied.
89. In September 2014, new regulations for studies have been introduced30.
90. Students applying for deferred assessment or special consideration on medical grounds must submit a medical
certificate issued by a registered medical or dental practitioner.
91. The assessment of students is described in the documents approved by the LSMU Senate and profiles of each
subject. Students are directly informed about their academic achievements and can find them out by logging on the
internet database with their own username and password.
92. The procedure of assessment is explained at the beginning of each subject. The LSMU uses a cumulative score
method, i.e., the assessment of different type is included in calculating the final mark. Teachers present study
methods, activities and weighted percentages of the final evaluation.
93. The list of the defended theses in the Clinical Nursing programme in 2013 and 2014 is presented in Annex 4.
5.7. Professional activities of graduates
94.The Career Centre conducted a questionnaire-based survey of the graduates of the Clinical Nursing programme
who received their Master’s degrees in 2010-2014. Out of 70 graduates, 44 participated in the survey. Most students
(59%, n-26) became employed while studying, others (n-7) found a job within one month since graduation, and 3
students found a job within per 2-5 months since graduation. Most students became employed in Kaunas (72%, n32), one female student went to work in Norway, and others started working in the district (n-4) or in another large
city (n-3). Currently, 42 students are employed, and two female students are on maternity leave. Thirty students
stated that Master studies helped their career and professional activity. Given the chance to choose again, 31
students stated that they would choose the same programme, and one – that she would prefer the same programme,
but in another city.
95. In 2014, only one graduate (she graduated in 2009) of the Clinical Nursing programme was registered at Kaunas
territorial labour exchange office.
Summary_____________________________________________________________
96. Good relationships are established between teachers and students. Students' academic and social support system
is well-functioning. The organisation of the study process allows combining studies and work. Students actively
participate in scientific activity. The alumni positively evaluate the studies and would recommend them to their
friends. All the graduates are employed. The number of students accepted to this programme varies every year.
28LSMU
29LSMU
Regulations for Studies http://lsmuni.lt/media/dynamic/files/4891/06-20-13.pdf
Procedure for the Assessment of Learning Outcomes http://lsmuni.lt/media/dynamic/files/2086/studentu_pasiekimu_vertinimo_reglamentas.pdf
25
6. PROGRAMME MANAGEMENT
6.1. The main documents in the management of the programme and the process of management
100. The main LSMU documents governing the management of the study programme are as follows:
1)
Statute of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences30;
2)
Regulations of First-Cycle, Second-Cycle and Integrated Studies at the Lithuanian University of Health
Sciences31;
3)
Work Regulations of the Senate32;
4)
Regulations of the Assessment of Learning Achievements33;
5)
Regulations of the Faculty Council at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences34;
6)
Work Regulations of the Commission of Studies and Science of the Council of the Nursing Faculty at the
Lithuanian University of Health Sciences35;
7)
Provisions of Study Programme Committees at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences36;
8)
Procedure for the Development, Improvement and Management of Study Programmes at the Lithuanian
University of Health Sciences37;
9)
Provisions of Study Quality Assurance38;
10) Procedure for the Organisation and Certification of Admission to LSMU Teacher’s and Scientific Worker’s
Positions at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences39.
6.2. Programme administration
101. The Study Programme Committee, which is responsible for the contents of the programme and educational
quality assurance as well as continuous improvement, is proposed by the Dean and approved by the Order of the
Rector.
102. Every five years the Council of the Nursing Faculty is formed of the permanent faculty teachers who have not
less than 0.5 of workload, the other teachers involved in teaching and students as it is allowed by the Regulation of
the University. Its main purpose is education and research. Currently, the Council of the Nursing Faculty of consists
of 13 members, the Council works under the Council Regulation40. The Council of the Nursing Faculty has a continuous
Research and Study Commission which considers and discuss study related regulations and proposals, considers the
resolutions and works out the conclusions to be submitted to the Council for further development of plans,
programmes and curriculum with regard to quality.
103. Collegiality and personal responsibility for decision making. The University has Collegial Administrative Bodies:
the University Council, the University Senate, and the university Rector as a sole executive body. The administration
of the university is based on the principles of democracy, competence, and self-efficacy41. The First-Cycle, SecondCycle and Integrated Studies at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences are organised and coordinated by the
University Study Centre. The study related issues (the assessment of study plans, the assessment of learning
30
Statute of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences. Approved by the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania, 30 June 2010, No. XI-973.
Regulations of First-Cycle, Second-Cycle and Integrated Studies at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences. Approved by the LSMU Senate, 20 Jun 2014,
No. 47-05.
32 Work Regulations of the Senate at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences. Approved by the LSMU Senate, 30 Jun 2014, No. 2-01.
33Regulations of the Assessment of Learning Achievements. Approved by the LSMU Senate, 14 December 2012, No. 14-07.
34 Regulations of the Faculty Council at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences. Approved by the LSMU Senate, 28 October 2011, No. 48-01.
35Work Regulations of the Commission of Studies and Science of the Council of the Faculty of Public Health at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences.
Approved by the Council of the Faculty of Nursing, 21 June 2012.
36 Provisions of Study Programme Committees at the LSMU. Approved by the LSMU Senate, 14 December 2012, No. 25-08.
37 Procedure for the Development, Improvement and Management of Study Programmes at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences. Approved by the LSMU
Senate, 30 May 2012, No. 21-12.
38 Provisions of Study Quality Assurance at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences. Approved by the LSMU Senate, 20 January 2012, No. 17-01.
39Procedure for the Organisation and Certification of Admission to LSMU Teacher’s and Scientific Worker’s Positions at the Lithuanian University of Health
Sciences. Approved by the LSMU Senate, 20 Jun 2014, No. 43-03.
40 LSMU Regulation of the Faculty Council. Approved by Senate, October 28, 2011, No. 14-07
41 LSMU Statute. The LRS decision on June 30, 2010, No. XI-973 (a new version of LR Seimas (Parliament) decision on June 28, 2012, No. 2147
31
26
outcomes, the assessment of study quality, and other academic and strategic faculty issues) are presented and
discussed at the meetings of the rectorate. The meetings are held twice a month and consist of university
administration, key department managers and students’ representatives. Senate meetings take place once a month
in various issues of academic matters and also include the approval of study plans for students, the establishment of
rules and regulations, and other study related issues. There is an Internal Audit Service in the University. In order of
appearance of various different questions temporary working groups with responsible persons are created for solving
the issues.
104. Programme information base. The quality and administration of the Study Programme is regulated by the
documents approved in LSMU. These documents can be found in Dean’s of the Faculty office, relative departments,
and on the University Web site at http://www.lsmuni.lt. All the activities which are related to incoming and outgoing
documents, the Rector and Senate resolutions and other material, contact information of applicants are stored in
the Faculty Dean‘s office and in the other responsible units. The sequence of decision-making, review of quality
assurance and approval of selected is regulated comprehensively and clearly. LSMU implemented the project on
"Lithuanian University of Health Sciences for the Enhancement of Performance” (project no. VP1-3.1-MES-07-K-02062) which is designed for the improvement of document management and administration.
6.3. Study quality assurance
105. As stated in the Berlin Communiqué (2003), even the idea of Higher Education Institution autonomy itself means
greater responsibility and accountability for all concerned as regards study quality: students, their parents, graduates,
employers, and government institutions.
106. The Relevance of Programme Quality Assessment. LSMU has an internal system of quality assurance based on
the European Higher Education Quality Assurance provisions and the quality assurance strategy approved by the
Higher education Institution that includes operating procedures and measures to guarantee the study quality in
Higher Education.
107. LSMU’ internal quality assurance system is determined by the University Statute, by the Regulation of studies
as well as by other RL legislation. The quality system is ensured in the following levels: 1) on a unit (teaching staff)
level; 2) on the subject and module level; 3) on the faculty level; 4) on the university level; 5) on the national level, 6)
on the international level. This quality assurance system corresponds to the international quality management
system.
108. At the national level, the quality of studies is ensured by programme accreditation every 5 years, which aims at
evaluating whether the programme complies with the regulations of the quality of studies.
109. At the university level, the assessment of the quality of studies is performed every year by evaluating the
subjects (content, complexity, examinations and assessment forms). The results of assessment are presented to the
academic community in the University newspaper ‘Ave Vita’, on the website and in the rector’s annual report. LUHS
service of internal audit performs regular inspections of the use of classrooms and following of timetables of subjects.
110. The Centre of Teachers’ Educational Competency was established at LUHS in 2003. The aim of the Centre is to
provide the continuous assurance of teachers’ educational competency and to guarantee an appropriate level of
educational competencies. The Centre has launched the Programme on Teachers’ Quality Assurance. This
programme was prepared based on the national collaborative project, which involved Kaunas University of
Technology, Vilnius University and students’ organisations, and was supported by the Open Society Foundation
Lithuania.
111. The Commission of Quality Assurance and Monitoring of Studies is responsible for the development of the
internal quality assurance system at LUHS (lead by the vice-rector for studies). The aim of this Commission is to assist
faculties and the departments in the development of the continuing quality assurance system.
112. The assessment of students’ knowledge and skills is considered as an important component in study quality
assurance. The assessment procedures of students’ academic achievements are described in the Regulations of FirstCycle, Second-Cycle and Integrated Studies at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences. According to these
27
regulations, academic staff, rector, vice-rector and dean have a right to participate in exams as external observers. If
the student does not agree with the mark, he/she has a right to lodge an appeal to the dean. In this case, the
independent group of examiners is formed for the additional examination of the student.
113. At the faculty level, quality assurance is implemented through the activities of the Council of the NF (a more
detailed description about the role of the Council in quality assurance is described in the section ‘Management of
the study programme’). Every year, the dean of the Faculty gives reports, which analyse the annual activities of
departments to improve the quality of the Clinical Nursing study programme, to the Council. The dean’s meetings
with students are held at least once a year in order to get feedback on the implementation of various projects for
the improvement of study quality and discussions on the effect of implementation. Each year during the autumn
semester, the dean meets with the first-year students. Students can discuss different study-related questions, and if
problems occur, appropriate departments are informed.
114. Since 2012, the Study Programme Committee of the Clinical Nursing programme has been involved in the quality
assurance of the study programme. The Committee analyses the content of the programme and study subjects and
prepares the recommendations for their improvements.
115. At the departmental level, quality assurance is implemented through the accreditation of academic staff (at
least once in 5 years) and continuous teachers’ professional development at the Centre of Teachers’ Educational
Competency. Quality of academic staff performance is evaluated by the criteria, which are applied for the
accreditation of academic staff at the NF. These criteria describe the following: 1) minimum experience of teaching;
2) number of scientific articles, published during the 5-year period; 3) number of teaching materials prepared for
students. Different criteria are applied for professors, associate professors, lectors and assistant professors. The
members of academic staff present research activities carried out by them and the list of publications during the
meetings of the departments on an annual basis. The detailed analysis of the performance of the teachers is carried
out at the department level before the accreditation of lecturers, which is carried out every 5 years.
116. The Study Programme Committee, which is responsible for the contents of the programme and educational
quality assurance as well as continuous improvement, is proposed by the Dean and approved by the Order of the
Rector Order. The chairman of the committee is assoc.prof. A.Blaževičienė, members – prof. S.Saliūnė, prof.
L.Bagdonienė (Kaunas University of Technology); assoc. prof. O. Riklikienė, L.Urbietė (the Director of Nursing of the
Republican Hospital of Kaunas), and student I.Žemaitaitytė.
117. The Study Programme Committee analyses information on the adequacy of learning outcomes to current
achievements, evaluates the shortcomings of outcomes and recommends ways to eliminate them. Social partners
are invited to present their opinion about the graduates’ knowledge and practical abilities. The same questions are
addressed to the graduates, aiming at indication of the possible ways for improvement of the programme and its
outcomes. Activities are divided by the period of implementation: carried out on a month, regular, semester, or
annual basis.
118. The Study Programme Committee is responsible for the quality of the studies. The Clinical Nursing Programme
Committee develops and regularly updates the plan of activities, involving the objectives and implementations of
teaching and evaluation methods. This Committee periodically carries out students’ interviews about study quality,
as well as meets students’ representatives and discusses the issues of the organisation of the study programme. The
study plan and the achieved outcomes of the programme as well as the necessary changes are reviewed after these
meetings. Also, the Programme Committee systematically monitors the First Class uploaded lectures, compositions,
the schedules of subjects studied and organizes meetings with programme teachers and students.
119. Regular assessment of the quality of studies is conducted by the Senate as approved by the Study Quality
Assurance provisions at Lithuanian University of Health Sciences42 and Lithuanian University of Health Sciences
curriculum development, improvement and management43is administered at the university level. Each year, a
commission is composed regularly and delivered subjects in units are assessed (content, complexity, reporting and
42
Provisions of Study Quality Assurance at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences. Approved by the LUHS Senate, 20 January 2012, No. 17-01.
Procedure for the Development, Improvement and Management of Study Programmes at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences. Approved by the
LUHS Senate, 30 May 2012, No. 21-12.
43
28
evaluation forms), the results are analysed and presented at Rector meetings that ensure the elimination of
shortcomings.
120. The precise quantitative and qualitative information (for example, the annual reports of the Rector) is
announced publicly and constantly in the LSMU Website and in the local newspaper "Ave Vita” which deals with the
programmes of study, with a higher education qualification, students' views on the quality of higher education,
students' views on the quality of higher education that are considered by the authorities of the University related to
operational assessments graduates for career performance. Other data needed to inform the society about ongoing
studies can be published.
121. The Rector, the Vice-Rector and the Dean of the Faculty have the right to participate in the exams as external
evaluators as it is determined by the LSMU study regulation.
122. Regular rising of teachers' professional and educational competence is ensured in quality of education on the
international level as well as the participation in the international trainings and student exchange programmes.
123. The Use of the Evaluation Results. All the assessment results are used to improve the quality of the programme:
the students' oral remarks and formal evaluations are taken into account.
124. The Dissemination of the Quality Improvement Results. Quality improvement in Study assessment of the
programme is performed on periodic student surveys and meetings with students. The Study Quality Commission of
LSMU annually presents the outcomes and assesses the changes in academic society.
125. Student Participation in Quality Assessment and Improvement. Students take a significant role in the
management of the Clinical Nursing programme. Students’ representatives are authorized to make proposals on
different issues and to take personal responsibility for the implementation of such proposals. The students’
representative is a member of the Study Programme Committee of the Clinical Nursing programme and holds the
same rights as any other member in this Committee. In addition, the students’ representative is a member of
Commission for recruitment of academic staff at the NF and has the same voting rights as other members of this
Commission. University students participate in the programme administration and quality improvement: students’
representatives are in the Senate, in the Rectorate, in the Faculty Council, in the Study Programme Committees the
Commission on Appeal as well as in other working groups where various issues are analysed. The students may refer
to the departments, which are responsible for the curriculum management implementation, and to the Dean.
Students can express themselves independently by expressing their points of view in the Students Union Website,
by organising discussion forums, going directly to the departments and to the Dean's office, as well as participating
in joint working groups or committees (the Faculty Council) together with the academic staff.
126. Stakeholder Participation in Assessment. The social partners are actively involved in improvement of the study
programme (they are involved in the Study Programme Committee), in assessment of final works, and in participation
of Career Days.
127. Social partners are involved in the management of the programme. Two representatives (the Director of Nursing
of the Republican Hospital of Kaunas and the Professor at Kaunas Technology University) are the members of the
Study Programme Committee of the Clinical Nursing programme. They have the same rights as other members of
the Committee. More social partners are involved in the strategic planning meetings of the Study Programme
Committee of the Clinical Nursing programme, which are held once a year.
127. The LSMU Senate approved “The Procedure of Student, Teacher and Stakeholder Opinion Research”44 which
regulates the internal degree of quality assurance testing procedures, techniques and tools for Lithuanian University
of Health Sciences in connection with the study participants (teachers and students) and the social partners
(employers, graduates and others) survey.
44LSMU.
Students’, teachers’, and social partners’ (employers’) opinion research order. Approved by Senate on October 11, 2013, resolution No. 37-11
29
Summary
The management system of Nursing study program is clear and effective. University identifies processes and key
structures and persons responsible for program implementation and management. The LSMU operates monitoring
system of study quality, the work of Programme Committees has justified expectations improving the quality of the
programme; questionnaires registered a minimum number of complaints about the violations of pedagogical ethics.
It is believed that effective functioning of Study Programme Committee enables to foster collaboration of whole
academic community, students and social partners in program management.
7. CHANGES IN THE PROGRAMME AND ACTION PLAN ___________________________
As a result of a detailed self-evaluation of the second-cycle study programme Clinical Nursing, its strengths and
weaknesses as well as opportunities and threats have been identified. They are presented in Table 7.1. The further
programme development will be based on opportunities identified and minimizing the weaknesses.
7.1 Table. SWOT analysis
Strengths
Opportunities
A flexible form of studies (full-time and part-time) To transfer most subjects to distance teaching and
provides a possibility to study for all willing individuals.
learning.
Students with professional qualification of nursing or Increase student mobility via ERASMUS and other
midwifery may study in the programme, which ensures bilateral agreements.
the potential of future teachers of these specialities.
A multidisciplinary and highly qualified team of teachers.
Introduce
specialisations
such
as
Nursing
Administration or Nursing Educology into the study
Subjects in the study programme meet the challenges of programme.
the modern health care system.
Weaknesses
Threats
Insufficient student mobility.
A decrease in the population number will result in
reduced numbers of entrants.
A relatively small number of students.
30